The Bartlesville City Council heard an update Monday on the accomplishments of the citizen-led committee Keep Bartlesville Beautiful. The committee is tasked with enhancing the city’s visual appeal, strengthen community pride, and foster volunteer engagement through beautification projects.
KBB has partnered with several organizations over the past year to complete projects aimed at enhancing city gateways, corridors, medians and green spaces, according to Community Development Director Larry Curtis.
“The committee has leveraged grants and donations to extend its impact beyond the City’s $20,000 annual allocation, while also planning long-range efforts including expanded bench replacement, mural projects, and commemorative beautification for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” Curtis said.
Projects the committee has completed include:
Up with Trees Partnership
One of KBB’s earliest and most significant initiatives has been the partnership with Up with Trees, supported by a $15,000 grant from Phillips 66. The project will provide tree planting at the intersection of Highway 75 and Frank Phillips Boulevard, a highly visible gateway into the city. Approximately 23 mature trees will be planted, with ongoing watering and a multi-year warranty included in the agreement. Coordination with ODOT delayed implementation, but planting is scheduled for Fall 2025.
Downtown Planters
KBB has taken a leadership role in revitalizing the 32 decorative planters downtown. A volunteer planting day was held in May 2025, adding Baptisia and Aromatic Asters with help from Lighthouse volunteers. The committee is also exploring resurfacing options for planters that remain weathered despite cleaning.
Nowata Road & Silver Lake Triangle Project
In May 2025, KBB planted low-growing wildflowers at the intersection of Nowata Road and Silver Lake Drive. The project improves aesthetics while avoiding traffic hazards. Future discussions may include adding a walking path.
Bench Replacement Program
A survey of downtown benches revealed the need for replacements. In July 2025, the committee approved the purchase of eight new benches and two gliders, balancing design improvements with safety concerns.
Public Art and Murals
KBB approved a mural at the City Engineer’s facility, funded through private donation. Future projects may include mural festivals and additional art installations.
Native Plant and Garden Initiatives
KBB secured one pound of wildflower seed from the Native Plant Society, enough to cover 1,200 square feet with blooms expected in Spring 2026. The committee is also exploring a Native American Medicinal Garden at Centennial Park in partnership with tribal nations.
Volunteer and Community Engagement
KBB continues to engage volunteers, particularly through the Lighthouse, which supported both downtown planter projects and private property assistance. Subcommittees have been formed to coordinate with businesses for ongoing flower bed maintenance.
Committee goals for the next 12 to 24 months include
- Expanding the Downtown Bench Replacement Program to establish a consistent style.
- Implementing the Glow Path project along Pathfinder Trail for safety and aesthetics.
- Expanding murals and public art across high-visibility corridors.
- Planting Native Plant Society wildflower seeds (Fall 2025) and pursuing a Native American Medicinal Garden project.
- Relocating the Jo Allyn Lowe statue to the Silver Lake/Price Road roundabout with lighting.
- Developing commemorative beautification projects for the U.S. 250th anniversary in 2026.